Philippine Daily Inquirer

What does the lymphatic system do?

- Cory Quirino

armpits, groin, legs, neck.

It is the primary site of filtration for the body which cleanses every organ of the body. There is no escaping the lymph system. In short, it is essential to good health. When the lymph nodes are sore, it is a sign that there is congestion.

Thus, the need for drainage through exercise, massage and infrared sauna. Note: Illnesses like fibrotic cysts, allergies and cancer can be related to a lazy and congested lymph system.

Through exercise, one can keep a toned and energetic body. So, what are you waiting for? Start exercising today. Start slowly and gently—go for a brisk walk daily. Or, if you’re adventurou­s, buy a rebounder (trampoline) and jump 50-100 times daily.

Cleaning up

Q: I have been loading up on the bad stuff like lots of sugar, carbs and junk food. How can I recover from my negative habits?

Congratula­tions, you’ve taken the first step—awareness. Since it is clear that you are concerned, your mind is all the more ready to take action. Suggestion­s:

Clean up your cupboards by removing junk food. Anything that has transfats, coloring and preservati­ves must be thrown out.

Analyze your fridge. Take out leftovers (from two days ago), rancid bread, half-eaten chocolates—in short, foods that have been sitting there a long time. Chances are, they are overrun with bacteria and fungus.

Add more whole foods to your ref, like fresh vegetables and fruits.

Buy nuts. They are a good source of protein. When you’re

It is the primary site of filtration–and essential to good health tempted to eat steak, reach for almonds, cashews instead.

Make it a daily habit to drink eight to 15 glasses of water.

Try to practice prioritizi­ng water as your beverage of choice. When you are in a restaurant and a waiter asks you what you would like to drink, let water be at the top of the list.

Always eat two to three servings of raw food—fruits and salads daily. This should pack in the nutrients instantly.

Think berries. If you would consider a drink, let it be sourced from berries—acai, blueberrie­s, blackberri­es, raspberrie­s.

Always have a supply of fresh ginger. Take fresh ginger tea before meals to stimulate digestive enzymes in order to improve digestion. Or, drink it after a full meal in order to ensure good digestion and to remove gas.

Fresh ginger tea

Grate a three-inch piece of peeled ginger, and place in a pot of boiling water. Allow to steep for five minutes. Strain liquid and sip the tea while it is still very warm. Do not add sugar. Keep it natural all the way.

Ginger warms not only the stomach but also the entire body. So, if you are the type who is sensitive to drafts and cold temperatur­es, consider taking ginger tea daily. It will speed up your metabolism and will help you burn fat faster.

Q: It is a tedious task to conserve several vitamin/mineral pills in one day. I am just not the type. What is the alternativ­e solution?

Honestly, if you eat balanced,

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